Navaratri, one of India’s most revered festivals, is a vibrant and spiritually significant celebration of the divine feminine energy. This nine-night, ten-day festival holds great cultural and religious significance, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Each day of Navaratri is dedicated to the worship of a different form of the Goddess Durga, offering devotees an opportunity to connect with various aspects of the divine.
On the fourth day of Navaratri, Goddess Kushmanda is worshiped with deep reverence.
Goddess Kushmanda – The Deity of the Fourth Day
On the fourth day of Navaratri, Goddess Kushmanda is venerated. She is the fourth manifestation of Goddess Durga and is known by this name because of her ability to create the universe with her divine smile.
The name “Kushmanda” is derived from two words: “Ku” (little), “Ushma” (warmth), and “Anda” (cosmic egg), signifying her role as the cosmic creator. She is often depicted with eight hands, riding a tiger, and radiating a warm and benevolent aura.
Qualities and Symbolism of Goddess Kushmanda
1. Creator of the Universe: Goddess Kushmanda is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile, earning her the title “Adi Shakti.” Her very existence symbolises the primordial energy responsible for the cosmos.
2. Eight Hands: The eight hands of Goddess Kushmanda hold various objects and weapons, including a mala (prayer beads), lotus flower, bow, and arrow. Each of these symbols represents her divine powers and her ability to bestow blessings on her devotees.
3. Radiant Aura: She is often depicted with a warm and benevolent countenance, signifying her nurturing and motherly nature. Her radiant presence fills her devotees with love and compassion.
4. Riding a Tiger: Goddess Kushmanda rides a tiger as her vaahana, symbolising her divine power and fearlessness. The tiger, as her vehicle, represents her control over both the fierce and gentle aspects of life.
Why Goddess Kushmanda is Worshiped
Goddess Kushmanda is worshiped on the fourth day of Navaratri for her role as the cosmic creator and her ability to bring light and warmth to the universe. Devotees seek her blessings for creativity, new beginnings, and the strength to overcome obstacles.
She is believed to bestow prosperity and dispel darkness from one’s life. By venerating Goddess Kushmanda, devotees aspire to invoke her creative and nurturing energies, allowing them to embark on new ventures with confidence and positivity.
Navaratri is a time of spiritual reflection and a celebration of the divine feminine energy. On the fourth day of Navaratri, the worship of Goddess Kushmanda reminds us of the significance of creativity, creation, and divine warmth.